I See U with Eddie Robinson

I SEE U is an award-winning weekly program that gives voice to those who have often been unheard. Hosted by Houston Public Media’s Eddie Robinson, I SEE U explores cultural identity through the stories of people and places that have been transformed by the effects of long-standing biases. Eddie guides fascinating conversations with newsmakers who share their personal histories, their struggles and their triumphs. In listening, we learn to empathize and hopefully experience a few ‘a-ha’ moments for ourselves.

 THE CONCEPT

I SEE U is about IDENTITY. 

 I SEE U’s inspiration is taken from the poem, “I, TOO,” written by Langston Hughes (1925) – which offers up a theme of freedom, where diverse voices finally have a seat at the table, or in this case, a ‘programming seat’ at the table of your station’s roster lineup of weekly shows!

 The title of I SEE U is based on a quote which says, “U are a reflection of your people, regardless of what anybody says.”  --Haki Madhubuti (1975)

 In other words, according to the show’s Executive Producer, this quote says: “Where ever U go, whatever U do, people WILL SEE U by your face, by your race, by your ethnicity, by your ancestors – even, by your actions! So I SEE U gets at the heart of understanding who we are as individuals, so that we can live better amongst ourselves as a community.

 Through music soundscapes, host Eddie Robinson shepherds a new approach to the talk show and podcasting formats. I SEE U’s unique audio design weaves personal histories, candid conversations and compelling storytelling into a captivating production that drives listeners to reconsider preconceived notions about race and ethnicity. Featured guests of I SEE U include award-winning newsmakers, historians, filmmakers, musicians, community and religious leaders – those who’ve accomplished a great deal in life and yet, they’ve endured under the radar.

 Ultimately, I SEE U helps us learn more about ourselves and each other. The show also explores the origins of our biases and leads us into discovering more ways to live together regardless of the color of our skin or our cultural differences.

 WHY I SEE U MATTERS

Listeners in Texas and across the country have asked for a platform where diverse voices and honest dialogue can help us understand the cultural shifts that are changing our society in so many ways – where fascinating and surprising interviews take place, filled with unpredictability, vulnerability and even a little playfulness.

 About Eddie Robinson, the Host and Executive Producer

Show adjectives: Unguarded / Unique / Playful / Informative / Imaginative / Unpredictable

Show slogan: “I feel you. We hear you. I SEE U.”

 NOTE: I SEE U is deliberately spelled with the letter “U” as a nod to the abbreviation, ICU – which stands for ‘intensive care unit.’ Intensive care refers to the specialized treatment given to patients who require critical medical care. Consequently, I SEE U believes our local region, our nation, our world is in a ‘state of emergency;’ and uncomfortable, authentic and unguarded conversations can help serve as a balm to initiate some form of healing in this country.

 THE FORMAT:

• I SEE U is in segments with two internal breaks
• Newshole
• Two floating 1:00 breaks

 I SEE U launched weekly on May 15, 2021 as a production of Houston Public Media. It is available via PRX’s automated delivery service.

 I SEE U with Eddie Robinson airs every Saturday at 1pm (CST) on Houston Public Media / News 88.7 FM with encore presentations airing on Sundays at 12pm (CST) and 10pm (CST).